 Bluemull Sound Study - STAG 1 Summary
1. Introduction
ZetTrans is undertaking a study to examine options for the future of the transport links across Bluemull Sound, connecting the North Isles of Unst, Fetlar and Yell. The study being undertaken using Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG). This summary outlines the results of the first part of the STAG process.
2. Key Issues
As identified during the consultation, and confirmed by further analysis of available evidence, the key issues are
(1) Existing vessels and two of the three terminals are reaching the end of their operational life-span;
(2) Current ferry timetable is confusing;
(3) Accessibility issues, felt most acutely on Fetlar;
(4) Rising cost of providing the service, due to fuel price increases;
(5) Requirement to sustain the social and economic potential of the North Isles; and
(6) Potential benefits for both Unst and Fetlar from a Fetlar breakwater.
It is recognised that failing to invest in the service will create significant problems, due to the impacts and costs of continuing to operate the existing ferry and terminal infrastructure beyond its operational lifespan.
3. List of Options
Based on the consultation results and the analysis of problems and opportunities, a long list of potential options was generated and sifted to produce the following list of nine options for appraisal:
§ Option 1 – Do Minimum – Replacement of Gutcher and Belmont terminals and MV Bigga and MV Geira. The Do Minimum acts as a viable option in its own right, and also as a benchmark for comparison against other options.
§ Option 2 – Replacement of Gutcher and Belmont terminals, MV Bigga and MV Geira + development of Fetlar breakwater
§ Option 3 – Replacement of Gutcher and Belmont terminals, MV Bigga and MV Geira + introduction of a passenger only service
§ Option 4 – Replacement of Gutcher and Belmont terminals, MV Bigga and MV Geira + introduction of an additional crew (1 x FT)
§ Option 5 – Replacement of Gutcher and Belmont terminals, MV Bigga and MV Geira + introduction of an additional crew (1 x PT)
§ Option 6 – Single Fast Vessel
§ Option 7 – Unst-Yell Tunnel with 1 x Fetlar crew
§ Option 8 – Unst-Yell Tunnel with 2 x Fetlar crew
§ Option 9 – Unst-Yell Tunnel with 3 x Fetlar crew
4. Option Appraisal
The initial appraisal looked at each of the nine options, considering performance against the study objectives, feasibility, and also impacts on environment, safety, economy, accessibility and integration. The results of the appraisal led to the recommendation that the following options are not taken forward:
§ Option 3 – Replacement of Gutcher and Belmont terminals, MV Bigga and MV Geira + introduction of a passenger only service. A passenger only service could be poorly utilised, and is unlikely to be cost effective.
§ Option 6 – Single Fast Vessel. A single fast vessel would have operational risks, and has not been used in Shetland before.
§ Option 7 – Unst-Yell Tunnel with 1 x Fetlar crew. This option has not been taken forward because a single Fetlar crew would result in a significant reduction in the levels of service for Fetlar.
5. Developing the Options
With the anticipated costs, and operational features of the remaining options now being finalised, the detailed appraisal of remaining options is now underway. This includes utilising outcomes of work from the parallel tunnels study, consideration of how a Fetlar only ferry would operate, finalising cost estimates for terminal and vessel replacement, and also work on the changes in ferry service that could be achieved under each of the relevant options.
6. Summary and Nest Steps
The STAG 1 process has examined key issues surrounding the route, developed a range of possible options, and appraised the broad range of the benefits and disadvantages associated with each of the options. Work continues to finalise key elements of the different options, and then to undertake a more detailed appraisal. An on-board survey of ferry users is being planned for early July.
The study is expected to conclude on the most appropriate option in August 2008, with a public meeting planned for 6pm on 12th August at Uyeasound Hall. This will be to outline the findings and emerging recommendations, and will provide an opportunity for people to comment.
The STAG 1 report, along with previous work will be available on the ZetTrans website. Further information is available from http://www.zettrans.org.uk/consultation/bluemull.asp .
Alternatively you can email bluemullsound@shetland.gov.uk or phone (01595) 744868.
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